Equestrian camping near Mears, Michigan provides access to over 330 miles of trails through the Manistee National Forest. The region features primarily sandy soil with mixed pine and hardwood forests, creating varied terrain for trail riders throughout the year. Winter camping remains possible at many sites, though water availability becomes limited from November through April as most campground pumps are winterized.
What to do
Trail riding options: The White River special area offers multiple dispersed camping options for horse enthusiasts. Kendra H. notes, "This is more suitable for tents or maybe small campers. Best access seems to be along 160th avenue south of Arthur road. The road seems a bit sketchy but should be okay for most vehicles."
Water activities: Double JJ Resort offers unique amenities beyond typical horse trails. According to Bryan R., "There are 2 water parks on the ranch as well as horseback riding and a river to explore." The resort offers guided trail rides for less experienced equestrians.
Off-season hunting: Timbers Edge Campground accommodates both horses and hunters during fall months. Sharon S. explains, "I went in November. Most campers were there on the weekend. A lot of horses and hunters. Price was good for electric and water. Nice for dog walking."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Marzinski Horse Trail Campground features oversized campsites designed specifically for vehicles with trailers. One camper observes, "The campsites are all flat and quite large, being that they are meant to accommodate people with a horse trailer, and there are numerous hitching posts throughout the campground."
Lake access: Small, motor-restricted lakes provide peaceful paddling options for equestrians seeking variety. At Whiskey Creek Campground, Jason S. reports, "Activities, trails, fishing, swimming or just relax! One of our family's favorite spots up north." Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer water recreation between trail rides.
First-timer friendly: Several campgrounds welcome novice equestrian campers with supportive staff. Stacy H. shared about Whiskey Creek Campground, "Friendly staff, made us feel comfortable being first timers camping. Very helpful!! Can't wait to come back!"
What you should know
Water availability: Most equestrian sites provide water for horses, but quality and accessibility vary by location. At Marzinski, Cameron notes, "There's picnic tables, fire rings, water available, a well maintained pit toilet, and 21 sites! The pine trees are amazing and the road in was super accessible."
Corral limitations: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require campers to bring portable corrals or high-line systems. The Hungerford Lake area offers staging facilities but lacks permanent corrals. According to Arron P., "Dispersed camping and camp sites available. There are horse staging areas and hiking trails. The lake is nice, small enough for a kayak."
Seasonal considerations: Many equestrian trails become restricted during hunting seasons, particularly in November. Check trail status before traveling as some areas implement closures to prevent user conflicts during peak hunting weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children between trail rides. Josh N. mentions about Double JJ Resort, "Great pool, never seen a better pool at a camp ground comparable. Horseback riding was fun too."
Supervision requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds enforce strict rules about unattended horses and minimum age requirements for handling horses. Children under 12 typically need direct adult supervision on trails and in camping areas.
Privacy concerns: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. Whiskey Creek Resort offers a hilly layout providing more separation between sites. Jeff F. explains, "General store, fuel on site small lake, park has a hilly layout. New showers in camping area, meeting area at club house hosts are excellent."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many horse trails require navigating unpaved roads which may challenge larger RVs. Tobi W. reports about Marzinski, "We stayed here in our van and it was just what we needed. I wish we had a place to dump our grey water, but otherwise it was an easy drive in and had fresh water."
Dust control: Horse traffic creates dust issues during dry summer months. One camper notes about Timbers Edge, "Neighbors right on top of you. Dirtbikes n 4 wheelers flying around causing dust n access noise. Premium Sites might be the way to go though."
Signal variability: Cell coverage differs dramatically between campgrounds. One reviewer at Marzinski noted, "Spacious campsites with good visible/verizon service. We did not get service with T-Mobile." This information proves valuable for those needing to coordinate with fellow riders.
